Inside HMCTS

Episode

• Breaking barriers: HMCTS and Social Mobility 11.06.2026 11mnt

  In this episode, Delivery Director Jane shares her journey from a working class background to senior leadership and explains the Social Mobility Strategy HMCTS has developed to ensure career opportunities in the justice system are for everyone. Social mobility ambassadors Jan and Zak then bring that strategy to life, telling us about the school visits, the conversations, and the moments that remind them why this work matters. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please ...
• Volunteer, Magistrate, Inspiration: Carol's Story 29.05.2026 3mnt

  For Volunteers' Week 2026, we’re hearing from Carol - a magistrate for over 22 years and a true testament to the power of volunteering. After losing most of her sight in 2012, Carol could have stepped away. Instead, she adapted, continuing to serve her community with the same dedication as ever. For the full interview, visit our YouTube channel. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS
• From Cell to Court: Inside Prisoner Escort and Custody Services 02.04.2026 10mnt

  Before a defendant reaches the dock of the courtroom, there is a complex operation involving transport drivers, custody officers and multiple agencies to get them there. In this episode, Josie goes behind the scenes at Manchester Magistrates Court, spending a day with dedicated GeoAmey staff to see first hand what it takes to move thousands of people safely through the justice system every week. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS
• Welsh Language Services: here when you need us 01.03.2026 12mnt

  Did you know you have the right to use Welsh in any court or tribunal in England and Wales? In this episode of Inside HMCTS, we're joined by Hywel, Caren and Mari from the Welsh Language Unit to explore the support available, from dedicated helplines and translation services to in-court interpreters and why being able to speak your first language can make all the difference during life's most difficult moments. To listen to this episode in Welsh, please visit - Inside HMCTS, from ...
• On the bench: Why magistrates matter 11.02.2026 12mnt

  What does it take to sit on the bench and deliver justice? Less than you might think. Nick balances his work as a driving instructor with 17 years of volunteering as a magistrate in Sheffield and he says it's one of the most rewarding things he's ever done. In this episode of Inside HMCTS, he walks us through the reality of the role, working as a team, supported by a legal adviser and making decisions that genuinely improve lives. He shares how his employers have supported h...
• Divorce Step by Step: Your Essential Guide 22.01.2026 17mnt

  Go behind the scenes of one of our most widely used services in this episode of Inside HMCTS, where divorce experts Kimberley and Sarah share their insider knowledge. Discover how the divorce process really works, from gathering your documents to receiving your final order and learn the common mistakes that can delay your application. Through practical advice and myth-busting, this episode reveals how we support people through what can be a challenging time, making the journey a little smooth...
• Vision to verdicts: Introducing new courts and tribunals 27.11.2025 19mnt

  What goes into creating a modern courthouse? From Blackpool's new courthouse to London's state-of-the-art City of London law courts on Fleet Street, explore the major developments transforming justice facilities across England and Wales. Discover accessibility features like changing places and wheelchair-accessible cells, the regeneration of Salisbury Square, and the conversion of 7 Newgate Street into a world-leading 30-hearing-room tribunal centre. Plus, hear how £148 million is tackling...
• Justice Without Barriers: The Northampton Crown Court Story 23.10.2025 5mnt

  Go behind the scenes at Northampton Crown Court in this episode of Inside HMCTS, where a high-profile murder trial faced extraordinary logistical and human challenges. Discover how a team of justice colleagues, including HMCTS teams, police, and healthcare professionals overcame a previously inaccessible building, complex medical needs, and intense media scrutiny to ensure justice was served. Through creative problem-solving and collaboration, the episode reveals how fairness and dignity can ...
• Inside the Courtroom: Inspiring young minds through mock trials 21.08.2025 15mnt

  What if your first encounter with the justice system was inside a real courtroom, not as a spectator, but as a lawyer, magistrate or legal adviser? This episode explores the Magistrates' Mock Trial Scheme, a partnership between HMCTS and Young Citizens that brings authentic courtroom experiences to thousands of 12 – 14-year-olds across the UK. We speak with Josh Shipp, Head of Operations at HMCTS, and Akasa Pradhan, Senior Education Manager at Young Citizens to hear how mock trials are ...
• Justice Connected: Inside Common Platform 31.07.2025 12mnt

  We take you behind the scenes of Common Platform — a single digital case management system developed to bring together the police, Crown Prosecution Service, prisons, legal professionals, and the judiciary on one shared platform. We delve into how this ambitious digital transformation is improving access to information, enhancing collaboration, and streamlining court processes. From reducing delays to empowering legal teams with real-time updates, Common Platform is reshaping how justice is ...
• Applying for Probate: Top Tips, Tools and What to Expect 21.05.2025 25mnt

  Applying for probate is something many people will face at some point, but it often comes during a deeply difficult time. In this episode of Inside HMCTS, we chat with Arjan and Nigel about the process of applying for probate. Whether you're applying online or using a paper form, this episode offers clear, supportive guidance to help navigate what can be a difficult time with confidence. From avoiding common mistakes to understanding timelines and requirements, this practical conversation is ...
• The Final Countdown: Reflecting on the modernisation journey for courts and tribunals 03.04.2025 26mnt

  Launched in 2016, the HMCTS Reform Programme reaches its formal conclusion at the end of March 2025. It underpins a quiet revolution which has moved our courts and tribunals from paper to digital, stabilised and secured systems and set us up for the 21st century. In this episode, host Aaron Wilson is joined by CEO Nick Goodwin and Operations Director Daniel Flury to reflect on the programme’s impact, key learnings, and what comes next. They discuss the challenges of modernising the just...
• Evicting the Stereotypes: The Real Bailiffs at Work (Part 2) 13.03.2025 20mnt

  In the second part of our bailiff podcast, we continue to shine a light on the daily challenges our bailiffs face and the skills required to be a success. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of their day-to-day roles and gain valuable insights into what makes a great bailiff, from effective communication to resilience under pressure. Plus, don't miss the gripping conclusion of a real-life eviction story featuring county court bailiffs Wendy and Karen, as they navigate t...
• Evicting the Stereotypes: The Real Bailiffs at Work (Part 1) 06.03.2025 22mnt

  This episode takes a look at the day-to-day reality for our bailiffs. We're joined by a range of experienced bailiffs who share insights into their daily roles, challenges they face, and the reality behind the TV stereotypes. We'll also join one of our teams on the road, as county court bailiffs Wendy and Karen provide a first-hand look at their work during an eviction. Listen now to discover more about the essential skills and stories that define this often misunderstood profession. Send u...
• From Summons to Service: Your Complete Guide to Jury Duty 07.02.2025 19mnt

  Have you ever wondered how you get selected to sit on a jury and what happens once you are chosen? Listen to the latest episode of Inside HMCTS, where we take an in-depth look at jury service and the selection process. In this episode, we will be joined by Craig Robb, Deputy Director of Crime (Live Services) at HMCTS. After serving as a juror last year, Craig provides first-hand insight into the jury selection process, what to expect when you're called to serve and why it...
• 12 Months of Justice: The HMCTS 2024 Review 20.12.2024 15mnt

  Join us for a special end-of-year review episode of Inside HMCTS, where we reflect on the justice highlights of 2024 across all jurisdictions. From new systems and campaigns to the opening of additional courtrooms and significant events, we cover the progress and transformation within HMCTS. Tune in to hear from our colleagues and special guests as we celebrate a year filled with achievements and look forward to the challenges and opportunities of 2025. Send us Fan Mail For full t...
• Global Effort: Ensuring justice for all 28.11.2024 19mnt

  In this episode of Inside HMCTS, we delve into the recent OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) Global Roundtable on Access to Justice held in Ottawa, Canada. Join us as we explore the innovative approaches and practical strategies that are improving access to justice worldwide. Our special guest, Luc Altmann, Head of Insight at HMCTS, discusses his presentation on measuring and improving access to justice in court services and how the UK is leading the way with a data...
• Knives Down: Inside the community fight against knife crime - Part 2 05.11.2024 25mnt

  In the second part of our anti-knife crime podcast, we hear from some of the speakers who participated in the event, including Detective Superintendent Saj Hussain, from the Metropolitan Police, who shares insight into the role of the police in tackling knife crime. We have inspiring contributions from Steel Warriors, a charity group who transform confiscated knives into outdoor street gyms. You'll also hear from other special guests from Street Doctors, who teach emergency first aid to youn...
• Knives Down: Inside the community fight against knife crime - Part 1 29.10.2024 12mnt

  Our latest episode of Inside HMCTS delves into an impactful anti-knife crime event held at Westminster Magistrates’ Court earlier this month. In the first of this two-part episode, we speak with Ian Rawlins, a Legal Adviser from London, about the inspiration behind the event and the importance of educating young people on the dangers of knife crime. Listeners can expect to hear about the various activities and talks that were planned for the day, and find out more about a mock knife murder ...
• Classroom to the courtroom 20.09.2024 23mnt

  The latest Inside HMCTS podcast offers an insightful look into the collaboration between HMCTS and the University of Reading, providing law students with valuable real-world experiences in the criminal justice system. Join us as we meet District Judge Sam Goozee, Senior Legal Manager Rachel Newman, and Associate Professor Liz Conaghan as they delve into the joint outreach programme that allows students to observe court proceedings, participate in mooting, and gain first-hand experience in le...